What International Delegates Need to Know About Travel to Cambridge

Cambridge is one of the world's great academic and scientific cities — home to the University of Cambridge, AstraZeneca's global R&D headquarters, ARM Holdings, Microsoft Research, and dozens of world-leading biotech and pharmaceutical companies. For international visitors arriving for business or academic events, navigating the journey from a London airport to Cambridge can be confusing. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Which Airport to Use

There is no airport in Cambridge itself. International visitors arrive at one of five London airports:

• London Heathrow (LHR) — The UK's largest airport and the main hub for intercontinental flights from the Americas, Asia, Middle East, Africa, and Australia. Transfer time to Cambridge: 60–75 minutes by chauffeur.
• London Stansted (STN) — The closest airport to Cambridge. Primarily serves European routes and budget carriers. Transfer time: 30–40 minutes.
• London Gatwick (LGW) — South of London. Serves a wide range of long-haul and European routes. Transfer time: 75–90 minutes.
• London Luton (LTN) — North of London. European routes and budget carriers. Transfer time: 45–55 minutes.
• London City (LCY) — In east London. Primarily serves European business routes. Transfer time: 60–75 minutes.

Transport Options from London Airports to Cambridge

Option 1: Private Chauffeur (Recommended)

A private chauffeur is the most reliable and comfortable option for international business visitors. Benefits include: door-to-door service, fixed price agreed in advance, flight tracking so your driver waits if you are delayed, meet & greet with a name board in arrivals, and no need to navigate public transport with luggage.

Option 2: Train

Trains run from London Liverpool Street to Cambridge (approximately 1 hour) and from London King's Cross to Cambridge (approximately 50 minutes). However, from Heathrow you must first take the Heathrow Express or Underground to central London, adding 45–60 minutes and a change of station. From Stansted, the Stansted Express runs direct to Liverpool Street in approximately 45 minutes.

Option 3: Taxi or Ride-Hailing

Metered taxis and ride-hailing apps are available at all London airports, but prices are variable and can be significantly higher than a pre-booked fixed-price chauffeur, particularly during peak hours or when traffic is heavy.

Arriving at Heathrow: What to Expect

Heathrow has five terminals. Most intercontinental flights arrive at Terminal 3 (oneworld alliance, including British Airways long-haul) or Terminal 4/5 (British Airways). Your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall of your specific terminal with a name board. Allow 30–45 minutes from landing to clearing customs and collecting luggage.

Arriving at Stansted: What to Expect

Stansted is a single-terminal airport. It is the most straightforward of the London airports for Cambridge visitors. Your driver will meet you in the main arrivals hall. The journey to Cambridge city centre takes 30–40 minutes via the M11.

Currency and Payment

The UK uses pounds sterling (GBP). All major credit and debit cards are accepted at UK airports and by Executive Line Chauffeurs. Pre-booked chauffeur services can be paid by card at the time of booking, so you do not need to carry cash.

Useful Information for Cambridge Visitors

• Cambridge city centre is compact and walkable. Most University buildings, colleges, and the city centre are within 15 minutes' walk of each other.
• AstraZeneca's global R&D campus is located at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, approximately 2 miles south of the city centre.
• Cambridge Science Park is located approximately 3 miles north of the city centre.
• Most major hotels are within the city centre or on the outskirts within 10 minutes by taxi.
• The UK drives on the left. If you are hiring a car, ensure you are comfortable with left-hand traffic before doing so.